Indians postseason Q & A

Monday

Questions that must be answered by the Indians before the postseason begins:

Questions that must be answered by the Indians before the postseason begins:

Q: Who will be the first-round opponent?

A: The Indians came into Monday with 63 losses, Boston and the Angels had 64 and New York 65. If Cleveland finishes with the best record, the Indians would face the second-place team from the East in the Division Series. The Tribe was 0-6 against New York this season, 2-5 against Boston. The Indians cannot face the Angels in the first round.

Q: What will be the Division Series schedule?

A: The American League team that finishes with the best record will have one hour after the conclusion of its final regular-season game to decide whether its first-round series should begin Oct. 3 or Oct. 4. The Indians would almost certainly choose Oct. 3, allowing either C.C. Sabathia or Fausto Carmona a second start on regular rest.

Q: Will Jake Westbrook or Paul Byrd start Game 3?

A: Westbrook pitched very well against Oakland on Sunday, striking out a career-high nine batters. Byrd has not fared well recently (7.15 ERA in his last four starts). But, while pitching for the Angels, he was the only pitcher to beat Chicago during the 2005 postseason.

Q: Who will be the last pitcher on the postseason roster?

A: Cliff Lee struggled and was sent to the minor leagues this season, but won 18 games in 2005 and looked good in his most recent relief appearance. Aaron Laffey has performed well as the No. 5 starter, but will have only nine games of big-league experience under his belt when the playoffs begin.

Q: Who will be the last position player on the postseason roster?

A: Ben Francisco has hit well in limited action and can pinch-run and play all three outfield positions. Trot Nixon is a left-handed hitter who brings a veteran clubhouse presence and playoff experience. David Dellucci has one week to prove he has recovered from hamstring surgery and can contribute in the postseason.

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